• Believe it or not, there is more than one entrance to City Hall.city hall entryway image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
  
  The biggest political headlines in the media today are generated in Washington. The bulk of political activity, however, runs through Main Street U.S.A. Local governments representing cities, towns, municipalities and counties provide a myriad of opportunities for citizens to engage the democratic process. All it takes is a little time, energy and passion, and the willingness to pursue the common good and make a difference in your local government.
  
  

Serve on Advisory Boards or Committees

• Most cities have volunteer citizen advisory boards or committees that provide oversight for the various functions of city government. Examples of such boards include criminal justice advisory boards, planning commissions and tourism authorities. The city or county government funds these boards, which recommend legislation to the city council, conduct hearings on pressing issues and educate the public through literature and other media exposure. Positions on boards in larger cities are often politically appointed. Smaller community boards often will take anybody willing to give the time and effort.
  
  

Attend City Council Meetings

• Progressive open-meeting ordinances in most cities require city council business to be conducted in public. Numerous concerned citizens sit in the gallery of most city council meetings. These meetings are an excellent opportunity to inform yourself of the pressing issues on the city agenda. Some municipalities, particularly smaller ones, allow an open-mike question and answer session to gauge citizen opinions. Use these as an opportunity to raise issues most important to you.
  
  

Run for Public Office

• The linchpin of democracy is the local public official. The most common offices at the city level are the mayor, the chief executive and the city council, which introduce and vote on the city's statutes and ordinances. Additional offices may include city treasurer, comptroller, police chief or commissioner. Campaigns for local public office can be costly, however, especially in larger cities where more money is required. Even in small communities, you will likely need the backing of a local political party to provide ballot access, campaign funding and infrastructural support.
  
  

Apply for a Civil Service Position

• No city can function effectively without a permanent staff of professional civil servants. Most cities operate on the council-manager model of local government. While the mayor sets major policy objectives and enacts legislation, the city manager oversees the day-to-day operations of all city departments. Professional staff are needed for public works, parks and recreation and assessment. If you have a particular degree or skill suited to the department, you could find a satisfying and secure career in public service.
  
  

Join a Community Organization

• You don't have to have an official role in city government to stay involved. Community organizations represent a wide range of constituents and lobby city hall on their behalf. Examples include the chamber of commerce, political parties, homeless advocates and environmental groups.